Algerian political activist and former presidential candidate Rachid Nekkaz has ignited a firestorm of controversy in Morocco after publishing a video recorded in front of the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech.
In the footage, he propagated historical inaccuracies and baseless claims disputing Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces. He also brandished a severed map that disregarded the kingdom’s borders.
According to local reports, Moroccan security authorities in Marrakech briefly detained Nekkaz for questioning regarding his statements. Following a formal investigation, he was released on orders from the relevant public prosecutor’s office, pending his deportation.
However, civil society organizations advocating for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara have called for legal action against Nekkaz, arguing that his remarks constitute an attack on the nation’s territorial integrity.
Calls for Legal Action
Mustapha El Ayach, national coordinator of the Moroccan Organization for Citizenship and Territorial Integrity, denounced Nekkaz’s statements, attributing them to Algerian-funded efforts to undermine Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue. He noted that “the significant international support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces naturally provokes reactions from fringe voices financed by Algerian taxpayers.”
El Ayach emphasized the widespread public outrage at Nekkaz’s actions, viewing it as clear evidence that Moroccans reject any challenge to their nation’s sovereignty. He urged authorities to take firm legal measures against individuals who attempt to undermine national unity, stressing that “this is not a matter of free speech but an act of hostility based on false historical and legal claims.”
He further suggested that Nekkaz’s controversial statements were likely a calculated effort to generate attention and reaffirm his political standing with the Algerian government. “Moroccan civil society must continue to raise awareness, promote national unity, and strengthen ties with organizations in friendly nations that support Morocco’s territorial integrity,” he added.
Strong Condemnation from Civil Society
Mustapha Miftah, president of the Moroccan Association for the Defense of Territorial Integrity and Human Rights Worldwide, also condemned Nekkaz’s actions, asserting that his statements were unacceptable to all Moroccans.
He highlighted that Moroccan diplomacy has made sovereignty over the Sahara a key criterion in forming international partnerships.
Miftah reiterated that “Morocco’s sovereignty over the southern provinces is non-negotiable, particularly given the growing global consensus supporting the autonomy plan as a viable resolution to the artificial conflict over the Sahara.”
He accused the Algerian regime of orchestrating media campaigns and political maneuvers to undermine Morocco’s progress on the issue, despite historical and geographical evidence invalidating separatist narratives.
He further urged Moroccan organizations to file a legal complaint against Nekkaz before his departure from Morocco to prevent further exploitation of Moroccan hospitality as a platform for inciting division.
“Moroccans have a strong national consciousness and fully understand the agendas at play in the region,” he concluded.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.